Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is made by Waste Collection Uxbridge for the current financial year. It sets out the steps we are taking to prevent modern slavery, human trafficking, forced labour, and exploitation within our operations and supply chains. We are committed to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings and relationships.

Our Business and Supply Chain

Waste Collection Uxbridge provides waste collection, recycling, and related services to households, businesses, and public sector organisations. Our operations rely on a network of suppliers and contractors that provide vehicles, equipment, uniforms, maintenance, technology, and various support services. We recognise that modern slavery can occur in any industry and region, and we therefore actively monitor and manage risks in our supply chains.

Zero-Tolerance Approach to Modern Slavery

We operate a strict zero-tolerance policy towards modern slavery and human trafficking. Any form of forced, bonded, or involuntary labour, as well as any exploitation or abuse of vulnerable individuals, is wholly unacceptable. This policy applies to all employees, agency workers, contractors, and suppliers who work with or on behalf of Waste Collection Uxbridge.

We expect all those we do business with to share our commitment to human rights, fair treatment, and safe working conditions. Where our expectations are not met, we will take appropriate corrective action, which may include suspension or termination of contracts, reporting to relevant authorities, and supporting affected individuals where possible.

Policies and Governance

Our zero-tolerance stance on modern slavery is supported by internal policies on ethical conduct, recruitment, whistleblowing, health and safety, and procurement. These policies are communicated to relevant staff and reviewed regularly to ensure they remain effective and aligned with current legislation and best practice.

Managers at all levels are responsible for implementing and enforcing these policies, supported by our senior leadership team, which has overall accountability for our modern slavery programme.

Supplier Due Diligence and Audits

We aim to work only with suppliers and contractors that can demonstrate respect for human rights and compliance with applicable labour laws. As part of our supplier due diligence process, we assess key suppliers on their approach to modern slavery, including their policies, training, and internal controls.

We conduct proportionate supplier audits and checks, focusing on higher-risk areas such as labour-intensive services, outsourced cleaning or maintenance, and procurement from regions where labour standards may be weaker. These audits may include document reviews, site visits, interviews, and requests for evidence of compliance. Where risks or non-conformances are identified, we work with suppliers to implement remedial actions, or we reassess the relationship where improvements are not forthcoming.

Training and Awareness

We are committed to raising awareness of modern slavery across our workforce. Relevant staff, particularly those involved in procurement, contract management, and frontline operations, receive training on recognising indicators of modern slavery and on the correct process for raising concerns. This helps ensure that any potential issues are identified and escalated at the earliest opportunity.

Reporting Channels and Whistleblowing

Waste Collection Uxbridge encourages all employees, agency workers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to speak up if they have any concerns about modern slavery or unethical practices. Concerns can be reported to line managers, senior management, or through our whistleblowing channels, which allow for confidential reporting without fear of retaliation.

All reports are taken seriously and investigated promptly. Where appropriate, we will involve specialist advisors, law enforcement, or support agencies. We ensure that individuals who raise concerns in good faith are protected and supported throughout the process.

Measuring Progress and Continuous Improvement

We recognise that combating modern slavery is an ongoing responsibility. We monitor the effectiveness of our actions through audits, feedback from staff and suppliers, incident reporting, and regular review of our policies. Lessons learned from investigations, supplier assessments, and industry developments are used to strengthen our approach.

Annual Review and Statement Approval

This Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Statement is reviewed annually to ensure it reflects our current activities, risk profile, and legal obligations. As part of the review, we evaluate the effectiveness of our zero-tolerance policy, supplier audits, reporting channels, and training initiatives, and we update our programme where improvements are identified.

The statement is approved by the leadership of Waste Collection Uxbridge, which is fully committed to preventing modern slavery in all its forms and to promoting ethical practices throughout our business and supply chains.